Getting Real with Shadra Bruce
In motherhood, when doubt creeps in, it can be difficult to work through.
Is there any mother in the world who hasn’t gotten to the end of the day and wondered if they’ve failed? Or let’s say your child is 18 and getting ready to leave for college. Do you wonder if you’ve done everything you should have to prepare them for the big bad world?
Have you ever thought to yourself, “What if I am failing as a mother?”
How do we know? We don’t get grade books or reviews. There’s no “rate my parent” site to see how we measure up to other moms and dads. And there are no written rules or guidelines to follow.
In the quiet of the house, late at night, I sometimes worry. Did I hover too much and keep my kids from being as independent as they should be? Did I spoil them too much? Did I ignore them too often because of work, exhaustion, or simply needing some peace and quiet? Will they thrive when I’m gone?
There are days when I feel I should have listened more, should have been more patient. And there are days when I catch glimpses of everything amazing that my kids have learned by being my kid, and I am in awe of who they have become. They are awesome, amazing individuals who are prepared to take on every adventure coming their way.
In motherhood, when doubt creeps in, you have to remind yourself that you are good enough, that your love is the most powerful gift you can give your kids, and that they will be ok – and you will be too. Motherhood is not an easy job, but it really is the most rewarding. In those quiet times when you question how well you’re doing, give your kids another hug, give yourself a little love, and know that you’re doing fine.
